One of the most popular cols to be included in the Tour de France, the Aubisque is also one of the more difficult climbs on the Raid. From Argeles-Gazost we head up the Soulor (19.4km) with a maximum gradient of 9%. There's a good café at the top where you can catch your breath, before losing a little altitude as we go around the Cirque du Litor, a fairly narrow ledge along the edge of the mountain, with two small tunnels and a sheer drop into the ravine. Don't worry, there's a wall along the edge! Look out for the plaque commemorating the fall of yellow jersey Wim Van Est down the mountain in 1951, where he was rescued by his team manager with the help of a tow rope and 40 spare tyres. Then continue on up the 10km to the Col d'Aubisque, maximum 8%.